Revision as of 13:27, 11 May 2011

Guidelines

If on, switch it off. If off, leave off.

Note only under exceptional circumstances should the handset be left switched on and in any case every precaution to prevent the handset connecting with the Communication Service Provider should be made. Consider use of one of many wireless preservation or RF isolation techniques. Note that the slightest signal leakage will allow an overwriting text message through even if a phone call can't get through.

Instead of switching off, it may be better to remove the battery. Phones run a different part of their program when they are turned off. You may wish to avoid having this part of the program run.

Note that removing the battery or powering off a mobile phone may introduce a handset unlock code upon powering the device on.

Collect and preserve other surrounding and related devices. Be especially careful to collect the power charger. The phone's battery will only last a certain amount of time. When it dies, much of the data on the device may go too!

Plug the phone in, preferably in the evidence room, as soon as possible.

Use forensically sound tools for processing. However, also remember ACPO Principle 2 says: In exceptional circumstances, where a person finds it necessary to access original data held on a computer or on storage media, that person must be competent to do so and be able to give evidence explaining the relevance and the implications of their actions.